atlas

[ˈætləs]
nounmasculinepl: atlases or atlantes
atlas
1. A collection of maps bound together
The teacher brought an atlas to show students the geography of South America.
A professora trouxe um atlas para mostrar aos alunos a geografia da América do Sul.
2. A book or collection of illustrations or tables on a particular subject
A medical atlas contains detailed anatomical illustrations.
Um atlas médico contém ilustrações anatômicas detalhadas.
3. In architecture, a male figure used as a supporting column (opposite of caryatid)
The building's entrance was decorated with atlases holding up the roof.
A entrada do edifício era decorada com atlantes segurando o teto.
4. In mythology, the Titan who held up the celestial spheres
Atlas was condemned by Zeus to hold the heavens on his shoulders.
Atlas foi condenado por Zeus a sustentar os céus nos ombros.
In Brazilian and Portuguese culture, atlases are traditionally used in schools as essential educational tools for geography instruction. The mythological reference to Atlas remains culturally significant in Western art and literature, often symbolizing burden or support.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
map collectiongazetteercartographycompendium

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
atlas
Standard term used throughout Brazil for map collections
Portugal
atlas
Same usage as in Brazil; also refers to architectural male figures
USA
atlas
Common English term; often found in educational and reference settings

Related Words

mapgeographycartographyglobegazetteerchart

Related Idioms & Phrases

atlas of the world
atlas of anatomy
carry the world on one's shoulders like Atlas
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